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Biodegradable hydrogels based on stereocomplex formation between lactic acid oligomers grafted to dextran
S J de Jong1, S C De Smedt, J Demeester
1Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, P.O. Box 80.082, 3508 TB Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Summary
This study introduces a novel hydrogel formed by stereocomplexation of lactic acid oligomers. The thermo-reversible hydrogel forms at room temperature and shows potential for various applications.
Area of Science:
- Polymer Chemistry
- Biomaterials Science
- Supramolecular Chemistry
Background:
- Hydrogels are widely used in biomedical applications.
- Developing novel hydrogel systems with tunable properties is crucial.
- Stereocomplexation offers a unique approach for hydrogel crosslinking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility of a novel hydrogel system crosslinked by stereocomplex formation of lactic acid oligomers.
- To determine the optimal conditions for stereocomplex formation and hydrogelation.
- To characterize the thermo-reversible properties of the developed hydrogel.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of D- and L-lactic acid oligomers with varying degrees of polymerization (DP).
- Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to analyze crystallinity and stereocomplexation.
- Coupling of lactic acid oligomers to dextran, followed by hydrogel formation and rheological measurements.
Main Results:
- Crystallinity observed in D- or L-oligomers at DP ≥ 11, but stereocomplexation occurred in blends at DP ≥ 7.
- Hydrogel formation was achieved by mixing dextran-grafted L- and D-lactic acid oligomers.
- The hydrogel exhibited thermo-reversible properties, with storage modulus decreasing upon heating and restoring upon cooling.
Conclusions:
- Stereocomplex formation between lactic acid oligomers provides a viable crosslinking mechanism for hydrogel formation.
- The degree of polymerization and substitution influence hydrogel properties.
- The developed hydrogel system is thermo-reversible and shows promise for advanced material applications.